The UK's first Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week runs from today until Friday.

Only a quarter of UK homes have a carbon monoxide alarm, compared to 80% of homes having smoke alarms.

And that is despite high-profile cases like the tragic death of Fartown youngster Dominic Rodgers, the deaths of a Chinese couple above their takeaway in Lockwood and the appalling deaths of two little children from Horbury on holiday in Corfu.

More injuries are caused each year by carbon monoxide poisoning than house fires.

Lynn Griffiths, of the CO Awareness group, knows the dangers of carbon monoxide all too well.

She lost her husband to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, suffers continuing medical problems herself and has four children with medical problems caused by the suspected poisoning.

She said: "Knowledge is the key to preventing carbon monoxide poisoning.

"We must no longer stay silent about this silent killer.

"With winter here the heating is set to be cranked up and doors and windows will be kept shut, adding to the dangers of poisoning.

"Taking steps such as keeping rooms well ventilated, getting heating appliances regularly checked and ensuring that flues and chimneys are kept clear could save your life."